The tennis court quiets as the ball hits the fence. Applause soon erupts from the fans. Match point, in favor of NKC girls’ tennis team.
The girls’ tennis team ended the season with numerous wins. The novice team finished the regular season 4-3, the junior varsity team finished 9-3, and varsity finished 8-3, heading into districts.
“My favorite part about our season and being on the team is the support system you have and the overall team bonding,” senior Amela Halilovic said.
Along with teaching Physics, Daniel Berkland also coaches girls’ and boys’ tennis. The captains were senior Sara Tuncten and junior Ariana Fakeri.
“Our goal this year was to get better with every practice, every point, and every match. And everyone on the team did so. I am very proud of these girls’ accomplishments and their passion for our school and the team,” Berkland said.
Additionally, Tuncten won her 100th career match against Lee Summit West. She is one of only four players to achieve this accomplishment.
“I feel extremely accomplished. Overall, it’s a great feeling being one of four girls to accomplish this,”said Tuncten.
Following the end of the season, professional tennis player Chanda Rubin visited the team on Oct. 3.
Rubin talked with the girls about their techniques, how long they’ve been playing, and answered any questions they had. Chanda Rubin’s hoped to encourage the girls to “never give up, no matter how dark it appears.”
“I’m glad we had the chance to meet Chanda Rubin because it’s a great opportunity to hear from someone that’s at such a higher level than us,” said Tuncten.
Rubin told her story of when she was in the 1995 French Open Tournament, and how she began professionally playing at the age of 15.
Rubin has won seven Women’s Tennis Association tours singles titles, and reached her highest-ranking title of world No. 6 on April 8, 1996.
Rubin is also former No. 9 in doubles, winning the doubles match in the Australia Open.
The team’s goal for next year is to get more girls involved.
“If you want to join, then join. Make sure you have fun with it because the season goes by really fast. Also, don’t worry if you aren’t really good. You will improve as the season goes,” senior Dianna Ferro said.
On Oct. 7, the girls accomplished their original goal of becoming better while at Districts.
Placing sixth overall in the District Doubles Tournament was senior Halilovic and junior Tram Bui. Placing fourth overall in the District Doubles Tournament were juniors Fakeri and Taylor Thompson. Senior varsity player Kim Nguyen placed third overall in the District Singles Tournament.
The biggest accomplishment for the team was Tuncten placed first overall to take home the District Championship in Singles.
